Is Hope Cove Dog Friendly?

Hidden away in the beautiful South Hams lies Hope Cove, a quaint fishing village with something for everyone, including our furry friends! This post explores which areas of Hope Cove are dog-friendly and why you should come and visit. 

Where is Hope Cove?

Hope Cove is found on South Devon’s wonderful coastline. It sits proudly between Thurlestone and Salcombe and looks out to Bolt Tail, a headland immediately to the southwest of the village. The location of Hope Cove is unparalleled. Its close proximity to the beach and the South West Coast Path makes it the perfect place for adventurers and sun seekers alike! 

Hope Cove is a village of two halves: Inner Hope and Outer Hope. Both offer a stunning sandy bay and undisturbed views across clear, tranquil waters. Hope Cove is a village that is meant to be explored, so be sure to get to know both halves when you visit.

Why visit Hope Cove?

There is plenty to do in Hope Cove. For water sports enthusiasts, make sure to try stand-up paddle boarding. You can hire boards and paddles for your trip at SUP Away, a brilliant independent paddleboard hire based in the South Hams. 

Keen walkers will be pleased to know that the South West Coast Path is right on the doorstep of Hope Cove. This coastal path offers both short circular walks as well as some longer, more challenging routes, all of which come with truly breath taking views. Best of all, Hope Cove is also dog-friendly, so you won’t have to feel bad about potentially leaving your pooch behind. To take in the best bits of South Devon’s fantastically rugged coastline, be sure to check out our Hope Cove walking guide.

If you fancy staying a bit closer to home, take a wander through the village. As you follow twisting lanes and peek out to sea, look out for clues to Hope Cove’s mysterious and murky past as a renowned smuggling village. 

Make the most of Hope Cove’s delightful food and drink options. From al fresco dining with stunning beach views at the Hope and Anchor, to trying the freshest seafood platter at the Lobster Pod Bistro, there are plenty of delightful spots to discover in and around the village.

Hope Cove’s beaches are what makes it truly special. In Inner Hope, there lies Harbour Beach, a generous stretch of golden sand, and in Outer Hope, you can find Mouthwell Sands, nestled conveniently in front of the village pub, the Hope and Anchor. 

We simply wouldn’t have the space to mention all of the brilliant things to do in Hope Cove in this post, so make sure to read our recent blog for more about why you should visit the wonderful seaside village.

Hope Cove’s Dog-Friendly Beaches

Dogs are welcome at Mouthwell Sands from September to April, while Harbour Beach is dog-friendly all year.

Harbour Beach at Inner Hope 

Pooches are valued visitors to Inner Hope’s Harbour Beach all year round. However, they must be kept on a lead and under control at all times, so as not to disturb any sunbathers and picnickers! As the bigger of the two beaches, Harbour Beach is perfect for a longer stroll with your four-legged friend and you can enjoy splashing in the tropical-looking waters. 

Mouthwell Sands at Outer Hope

In Outer Hope, you will find the popular Mouthwell Sands. Well-behaved dogs are allowed on the beach during off-peak months, September through to April. When visiting with your dog at this time, be sure to make the most of the often empty stretches of sand and savour the peace and quiet of the sleepy seaside village.

Where to stay in Hope Cove 

If you are wanting to stay in Hope Cove with your four-legged friend, look no further than Dusky Cottage. Located in the heart of the South Hams, the cottage is a short walk, cycle or drive away from Hope’s golden beaches. 

Dusky Cottage 

This 250-year-old self-catering cottage sleeps 8, making it the ideal property for that long-awaited getaway with family or friends. One well-behaved dog is also more than welcome to stay at the house. 

Hidden among rolling hills, Dusky Cottage’s exclusive, rural location makes for guaranteed peace and privacy. The garden is the social hub of the property, complete with a wooden hot tub, luxurious outside seating area, and a fire pit. In cooler months, warm up in the living room with the large gas wood burner, before resigning to the master suite, complete with four-poster king-sized bed.

How dog-friendly is South Devon?

During your stay at Hope Cove, you will have the opportunity to explore the rest of South Devon. Be sure to pay nearby areas such as Salcombe and Kingsbridge a visit. Like Hope Cove, Salcombe is super dog-friendly and also has dog-friendly beaches to explore. 

If you are searching for a dog-friendly holiday home for you and the whole family to enjoy, Finest Stays has you covered. We have a range of dog-friendly properties in South Devon, so take your pick! 

If you are wanting to find the perfect place to stay, browse our fabulous range of properties or speak to a member of our friendly team.